Welcome to 2022! As with each new year, there is the promise of new growth. I want to do this with all of our wellness practice and share why I truly love Pilates. It is so easy to get stuck in the rut of doing only what we are comfortable with. Let’s shake off the last two years by dialing into how we are moving, get introspective, and grow from it.
I’m starting the year with a commitment to me, and to you: one exercise a day, dialed in and focused on the mechanics to really make it count. While body mechanics is EVERYTHING, my work has shown me it’s one of the hardest things to consistently maintain. It is so easy to get distracted and caught up in routine movement! By being mindful of our movements, even the simplest exercises take on new meaning.
When we are out of alignment and our body’s mechanics are off, we rely on the incorrect muscles to complete the exercise. Yes, you are still moving, still using muscles, but you are not meeting the goals of the exercise. When you continue to use incorrect body mechanics your body begins to rely on new compensatory muscle patterns to function. This may lead to muscle strain which may lead to injuries. To get the most out of your workout and to maximize ease in function, we want to focus on body mechanics. Correct execution of exercises allows our body to function optimally.
So I’m going back to the basics, focusing on the form and mechanics, and hoping to deepen all of our practices—whether you’re new to the power of Pilates, or an advanced devotee that needs to tune up their mechanics .
Join me on my #365DaysofPilates journey! Every day I’m posting a video showcasing one exercise, the mechanics, and its goal.
Live Long & Strong!
Shari Barta